Nihonbashi: Daimyo Procession Setting Out, circa 1833 - 1834

Hiroshige’s Hoeido Tokaido - In 1832, Hiroshige first traveled from his home in Edo (present-day Tokyo) to Kyoto along the Tokaido road. The journey was an eye-opening and life-changing experience for him. As an urban man of Edo, he had experienced life mainly in the capital. After the trip, he returned to Edo and immediately began his masterwork woodblock series from the sketches he had made on his journey. Hiroshige's first Tokaido series is known as the "Hoeido Tokaido," after the publisher Hoeido, or "The Great Tokaido." Hiroshige returned to this favorite subject again and again, creating many additional Tokaido series. Published circa 1833 - 1834, Hiroshige's famous Great Tokaido designs offer an opportunity to be transported back in time to see Japan as it was during the days of the Tokugawa Shogunate.

Nihonbashi: Daimyo Procession Setting Out, circa 1833 - 1834 - Great scene of a daimyo procession crossing over Nihon Bridge in Edo. Footmen lead the way carrying tall standards topped with feathers or fringe. Below, laborers and pedestrians crowd the foot of the bridge as the gates to the city have just opened. One man balances a shallow wooden tub of fish atop his head, while a vendor at right carries flowering shrubs and plants. At bottom center, a young boy watches two dogs. A second version of this subject with many more figures added. A wonderfully detailed design.

Artist - Hiroshige (1797 - 1858)

Image Size - 8 5/8" x 13 1/2" + margins as shown

Condition - Nice detail. Remargined at bottom. Thinning along vertical centerfold, a few thin spots, repaired. Light creasing throughout, slight rubbing.